The advent calendar videos (www.rigb.org.uk/advent), inspired by the ‘Life Fantastic’ lectures, will work their way through the 23 pairs of human chromosomes and the mitochondrial DNA that make up the building blocks of human life.

Highlights include a video featuring the well-known broadcaster and geneticist Dr Adam Rutherford who will explore what ‘junk’ DNA is, a light-hearted look at male baldness with former Christmas lecturer Professor Mark Miodownik, and a visit to Alison’s lab to learn more about the genetic control of development and ageing (see the films on December 4, 5 and 6).

The Ri is also giving the public a chance to pose questions about the science from ‘Life Fantastic’ in its online discussion forum, by teaming up with the science engagement initiative ‘I’m a scientist, get me out of here.’

‘Life Fantastic’ will be filmed in front of a live audience at the Ri on December 14, 17 and 19. The lectures will be broadcast on BBC Four on December 28, 29 and 30 at 8pm.

After appearing on BBC iPlayer, the full series will be available to watch for free on the Ri Channel in January 2014.